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NLIS 7
June 23, 2005
(Natural Resources)
Minister announces funding
for silviculture initiative
Ed Byrne, Minister of
Natural Resources, Roger Fitzgerald, MHA for Bonavista South, and Ross
Wiseman, MHA for Trinity North, have announced $135,817 in funding for a
silviculture project taking place this summer across both districts. The
funding is being provided through government�s $7.3 million 2005
Provincial Silviculture Program.
According to Minister Byrne responsible management of the province�s
forest resource through meaningful silviculture activity will ensure the
forests remain productive into the future. �Silviculture initiatives
such as this one are a critical component of our province�s
reforestation effort,� he said. �In addition, such work provides a
significant boost to local economies particularly those in rural
communities.�
Mr. Fitzgerald said, �The allocation of nearly $136,000 for a
silviculture project spanning the districts of Bonavista South and
Trinity North is certainly welcomed. This funding will provide
employment for the people of the area and, at the same time, help to
preserve our forests for future use. The announced project shows that
government is committed to ensuring our natural resources are developed
in a sustainable and environmentally-responsible manner.�
�This initiative will certainly help improve the local economy in both
districts,� added Mr. Wiseman. �It also serves as an example of
government�s commitment to the use of strategic planning in the
development of our natural resources. Silviculture initiatives such as
this one are truly great investments for Newfoundland and Labrador,
especially in rural areas.�
This silviculture initiative will involve site preparation work over an
area of approximately 455 hectares throughout various locations of
Forest Ecosystem Management District 2. These sites will be planted in
2006. The contract for this project, which was awarded to Central Forest
Developers Ltd., started on June 13 and is expected to create 27
person-weeks of employment.
Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-5282, 685-4624
2005 06 23
12:55 p.m.
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